When assessing a patient with swollen lips and blistering, which additional symptom should be monitored closely?

When assessing a patient with swollen lips and blistering, it is crucial to monitor for respiratory distress. Swelling of the lips can indicate a potential allergic reaction or other serious medical conditions that may compromise the airway. Blistering alongside such swelling could also point towards conditions like angioedema or other types of edema that can restrict breathing.

Respiratory distress manifests through symptoms such as wheezing, stridor, or difficulty breathing, which can occur if the swelling progresses and affects the throat or airway. Keeping a close eye on respiratory status allows for timely interventions, such as securing the airway or administering appropriate medications, which can be critical in preventing life-threatening complications.

While blood pressure variations, skin temperature, and heart rate can certainly provide valuable information about a patient's overall health and response to a potential anaphylactic reaction, the immediate concern in this scenario is the risk to the airway. Early identification of respiratory distress can lead to quick and necessary treatment, ensuring patient safety.